It’s kind of eerie, but there’s no need for a carving knife. This pumpkin has a ghoulish shape all its own. I spotted it at The Fresh Market at 744 Hilltop North Shopping Center, Virginia Beach. $49.99

Just in time for soup season, I spotted these Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rinds. Simmer one with your soups for extra flavor, and remember when serving that the cheesy goodness is the “cook’s treat.” I found them for $6.99 a pound at Kroger, 3330 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach.

Who knew Old Bay had kin? I recently spotted these variations on the traditional blend. They offer a flavorful change of pace that’s just as bold as the original. I found these at Dockside Seafood Market & Marina, 3311 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach. $3.69 for 3-ounce tins.

With five categories yet to be judged, The Pilot's Dream Team of bakers has done it. Since the beginning of this delicious caper 10 years back, the combined ribbon total at the State Fair of Virginia now stands at a cool 100!

Ocean Eddie's endangered, old-school vibe survives within its wood-paneled walls, where an anchor dangles above the bar, the side porch dining room hangs above the beach and a laid back bartender who’s been here for a quarter century scratch mixes umbrella drinks and pops ice cold beers.